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Council launches external review into Sir Cyril Smith claims

Rochdale Council has launched an external review into allegations of historical child sex abuse at a school linked to the late MP Sir Cyril Smith. Greater Manchester Police said new suspects and victims had been identified.

'New suspects identified' in Sir Cyril Smith investigation

The leader of Rochdale Council has announced an external review will be held into allegations of child sex abuse at a school in the region made against the late MP Cyril Smith, as well as an inquiry into allegations of a "cover-up" within the local authority.

Cyril Smith pictured in 1991 Credit: PA

"In light of the serious investigations made in the last few weeks we've decided to widen the scope of the review beyond the council's decision-making," Colin Lambert said at a press conference.

Greater Manchester Police said new suspects and victims had been identified and appealed for any victims of abuse to come forward and then police will see if a criminal investigation is justified.

He said there had been no arrests made as yet.

Sir Cyril Smith's family has refuted the sex abuse allegations levelled against the late Liberal Democrat MP.